Information for Playwrights

What type of plays are you looking for?

WSRT is looking for ensemble pieces that have a run time of 70-90 minutes, or roughly 50-80 pages. Additionally, all scripts need to be conducive to a virtual setting; for example, pieces reliant on physical action, slapstick comedy, or direct character interaction may not translate well to a virtual platform. We’re not particular about content, setting, character tropes, etc. All options are on the table.
Building natural dialogue, believable relationships, and storyline continuity are aspects of script and story development that our company members excel at assessing. We all love a good monologue or two, though overuse of monologues can be detrimental to a virtual reading.
The above items are merely guidelines, not firm rules. If your script is shorter or longer than suggested, or if a character absolutely must get a pie in the face, our Vetting Committee will take that into consideration during the review process.

Are there any content restrictions?

Theatre is no stranger to controversy. Part of the joy theatregoers derive from new works is being challenged to see or think differently. That being said, we do have standards in place when it comes to controversial subject matter: Hate speech, discrimination, and unnecessary violence for the sake of violence are flagged during the vetting process. We acknowledge that these aspects may wander in from time to time to make a point within a story, but overuse or blatant offensive intent are the fastest ways to have a script rejected. The decision to reject a play for offensive content is made at the discretion of our Vetting Committee.

Can I submit my published or previously produced play?

WSRT’s aim is to assist playwrights in developing new works. Scripts that have already been published (professionally or through a self-publishing service), produced, or are scheduled to be published/produced fall outside the scope of our objectives.

How do I submit a script?

To submit a script, email a PDF copy with the Subject line “Play Submission: Title of Play” to walkingshadowrt@gmail.com. Include a brief synopsis and character breakdown in the body of the email, as well as your contact information. Our Literary Manager will reply to confirm we’ve received your script. If you would like to submit multiple scripts, please email each one individually following the above directions.
Our Vetting Committee reviews all scripts received. If selected for a reading, our Literary Manager will contact you to discuss arrangements for a live reading.
All readings are cast from our ensemble, the majority of which are repeat readers with known individual strengths that are taken into consideration when pairing actor to character.
All readings occur on the last Friday of the month* beginning at 8:00pm EST with a “Pre Show” video conference between the playwright, cast, and WSRT company members. The reading will begin livestreaming to YouTube at 8:15pm EST. Following the end of the stream, a 30-45 minute closed feedback session will occur between the playwright, cast, and company members, providing input regarding the strengths and growing opportunities within the script.

*In the event the last Friday of the month is a national holiday, readings will occur on the second to last Friday

I’ve revised my script since submitting it. Can I submit the new version?

After submitting a script, we ask that you do not submit successive versions. If your play is selected for a reading, our Literary Manager will contact you to arrange a reading and request the most recent version of your script.

Can I cast my own reading?

We prefer to keep casting “in house”, though special exceptions can be made if you have written a role specifically for a certain actor, or have an actor attached to a future production. Our Literary Manager will be the point of contact to discuss this matter.

What is the rehearsal process like? Can I sit in on rehearsals?

Our directors and cast members pull character development straight from the script. To provide an honest reading, without outside influence, we strive to leave personalized subtext and backstories in the wings. Our objective is always to provide a clean reading of your script without interjecting “us” into it.
Rehearsals are also where our cast members are familiarized with the technical aspects of livestreaming, including mic checks, lighting setup, and mic and camera cues for interacting on our virtual stage.
Due to the condensed nature of our production schedule, rehearsals are closed to ensure our cast and crew are able to focus entirely on bringing your script to life.